KUALA LUMPUR: The situation in Myanmar should be addressed through Asean in line with its charter and the grouping's principle of centrality, says Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.

The Foreign Minister said Malaysia's stand remains clear and consistent in not recognising the junta administration following the military coup on Feb 1, 2021.

"Malaysia believes that the situation in Myanmar must be addressed in line with the Asean charter and the principle of centrality since it is a regional issue that threatens the safety, peace, development and prosperity of the grouping," he said in reply to Jimmy Puah Wee Tse (PH-Tebrau) during Question Time in Parliament on Thursday (March 9).

Puah had asked the government to state its stand on the situation in Myanmar.

Zambry said the Asean Foreign Ministers' Retreat on Feb 3 and 4 in Jakarta agreed with the implementation of the Five Point Peace Plan.

"The plan is expected to contribute towards facilitating aid distribution to the people of Myanmar without any discrimination," he added.

He also noted that Malaysia will continue to work closely with other Asean members to help Myanmar achieve a peaceful and sustainable solution.

"It is important to support the full and effective implementation of the peace plan, which had been agreed upon by Asean leaders in April 2021," he said, adding that Malaysia will back Asean under Indonesia as chair in addressing the issue.

He added that Malaysia will continue all forms of engagement with member nations as no country can solve the issue on its own.

"It will require the full cooperation from Asean as it involves all of us and we must reach a consensus in the context of Asean centrality, which is important.

"We understand that the issues we are facing are complex and could create the possibility of other forces intervening.

"That would create instability in the region, which is why Malaysia will continue with all efforts to find a solution," he said.

He also explained that Malaysia will maintain an embassy in Myanmar as part of its engagement and discussions with the country.

"Myanmar is still a member of Asean. Whatever happens there will have an impact on us.

"That is why the government has decided, despite the crisis there, to maintain the embassy there to inform us of the latest developments," he added.